This Corrosion - Gothic Rock Anthem Overflowing With Dramatic Orchestration and Haunting Vocals

“This Corrosion,” a masterpiece by British band Sisters of Mercy, stands as a testament to the power of Gothic rock. Released in 1987 on their album Floodland, this song is an epic journey through darkness and despair, punctuated by moments of ethereal beauty and raw intensity. Andrew Eldritch, the enigmatic frontman and mastermind behind Sisters of Mercy, penned lyrics that delve into themes of alienation, spiritual yearning, and the destructive nature of desire.

Eldritch’s baritone vocals, deep and resonant, convey a sense of existential angst that resonates with listeners even decades after the song’s release. The haunting melody is carried by a combination of synths, guitars, and drums, creating a sonic landscape that is both brooding and expansive.

The track’s opening moments are immediately captivating. A slow, mournful cello line sets the stage for Eldritch’s powerful vocals, which enter with lines like “This corrosion, this decay/It eats away at everything.” The music builds gradually, layering instruments and intensifying the emotional impact. As the song progresses, it erupts into a wall of sound, driven by a pounding rhythm section and soaring guitar melodies.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of inner turmoil:

• “The world is turning grey/And every day’s the same”
• “I’m falling through the cracks/Lost in this endless game”

Eldritch’s words evoke a sense of hopelessness and disillusionment, reflecting the darker aspects of human experience.

One cannot discuss “This Corrosion” without acknowledging its iconic music video. Directed by Daniel Kleinman, known for his work with artists like The Cure and Duran Duran, the video perfectly captures the song’s atmospheric qualities. Black-and-white imagery blends with haunting visuals of decaying architecture and shadowy figures, creating a palpable sense of unease and mystery. Eldritch himself appears shrouded in darkness, his face obscured by shadows, adding to the mystique surrounding him and the band.

The impact of “This Corrosion” on the Gothic rock scene is undeniable. The song’s distinctive sound, coupled with its emotionally charged lyrics, inspired countless other bands within the genre and beyond. It has become an anthem for outsiders, a soundtrack for those who feel alienated from mainstream society. Even today, “This Corrosion” continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, proving the enduring power of music to express the complexities of the human condition.

Sisters of Mercy: Architects of Gothic Sound

To truly appreciate “This Corrosion,” one must understand the context in which it was created. Sisters of Mercy emerged from Leeds, England, during the early 1980s. The band’s sound was a departure from the prevailing punk and new wave trends of the time, drawing instead on influences from post-punk, krautrock, and early gothic rock pioneers like Bauhaus.

Andrew Eldritch, the driving force behind Sisters of Mercy, possessed a unique vision for the band’s sound. He sought to create music that was both dark and introspective, with lyrics that explored themes of alienation, love, loss, and the search for meaning in a world often perceived as cold and unfeeling.

Eldritch’s distinctive baritone voice, deep and resonant, became a defining characteristic of Sisters of Mercy’s sound. His lyrics were poetic and evocative, often exploring themes of gothic literature and mythology. The band’s music was characterized by its use of synthesizers, guitars, drums, and haunting vocal melodies.

“Floodland”: A Sonic Landscape of Darkness and Despair

“This Corrosion” is the lead single from Sisters of Mercy’s second studio album Floodland, released in 1987. The album is considered a landmark achievement in Gothic rock, with its complex arrangements, haunting melodies, and evocative lyrics.

Floodland cemented Sisters of Mercy’s status as one of the most influential bands in the genre. The album’s success led to numerous chart-topping singles and sold-out tours worldwide.

The Legacy of “This Corrosion”

Even after over three decades, “This Corrosion” remains a timeless classic. Its haunting melody, powerful lyrics, and evocative music video continue to captivate listeners across generations.

The song has been covered by numerous artists and featured in films, television shows, and video games. It serves as a testament to the enduring power of Gothic rock and its ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.

Musical Breakdown:

“This Corrosion” is not merely a song; it’s an experience. It’s a journey into the depths of human emotion, exploring themes of darkness, despair, and the eternal search for meaning. As you listen to the haunting melody and Eldritch’s powerful vocals, allow yourself to be swept away by its gothic grandeur.